“I am the resurrection and the life.” John 11:25
When the wise men arrived in Jerusalem they asked, “Where is He who has been born king of the Jews?” Take note of their words born king. They did not say born to be king but born king.
In his gospel prologue John describes the Lord with these words: “In Him was life, and that life was the light of men.” Life was present in Jesus from the beginning of His earthly ministry.
When John the Baptist saw Jesus he proclaimed, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” He did not say He will become the lamb but that He was the lamb.
Before His atoning work on the cross Jesus reveals His mission and purpose with these “I am” statements:
“I am the bread of life.”
“I am the light of the world.”
“I am the gate for the sheep.”
“I am the Good Shepherd.”
And now He testifies, “I am the resurrection and the life.”
These statements confirm Jesus knew from the beginning what His mission and purpose was to be. To others He would become known as the bread of life (and all the I am’s)…. But in His mind and heart He was already each of these! For Jesus it was a present reality.
This understanding of life, self, divine mission and purpose was the solid foundation that provided Jesus the boldness and confidence He demonstrated throughout His ministry. He was well aware from the very beginning of His earthly life where He had come from, what His purpose was and where He was going. Yes, there was a future context to His life and mission but also a present reality.
What could this “I am” perspective provide for us as children of God? Do we fully understand our situation in Christ Jesus?
We are saved, we are being saved, and we will be saved. We are in the process. We are justified, being sanctified, and will be glorified when we reach heaven. If our confidence is only in Christ Jesus and His atoning work on the cross.
“If our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God.” 1 John 3:21
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9
“You are saved by grace! He also raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavens.” Ephesians 2:5-6
Therefore, be confident and bold! We are saved, raised, and seated with Jesus! It is a future and present reality!
Blessed by you… Bro. Sherman
Leave a Reply